8 Feb 2013

Government brings forward telco reviews

1:15 pm on 8 February 2013

The Government has brought forward two reviews of the regulatory framework for telecommunications services.

Communications and IT Minister Amy Adams says she decided to bring forward the reviews as regulatory certainty is an important factor for people to have access to high-quality communication services based on new technologies.

Ms Adams says she has continually heard from consumers and the industry that they want certainty, and the policy framework needs to be predictable and stable for all concerned.

The minister says it is therefore desirable the reviews get underway immediately.

Chorus, is the Government's major broadband partner and network provider. The company was split from Telecom in 2011 and is taking a leading role in building the $1.5 billion Ultra Fast Broadband network in towns and cities, and the $300 million broadband upgrade in rural areas.

The review comes days after the Commerce Commission proposed to cut the price Chorus can charge customers using its copper network, prompting Chorus to call for a review of the legisation, saying it will cost the company $160 million a year.

Chorus on Friday welcomed the review, saying it is a positive step for the industry.